A real Vancouver institution. The mix of fresh local ingredients with traditional Indian techniques results in brighter cleaner flavors - where the spices provide lift and accentuates the natural sweetness of ingredients. Curries with local fish - or the famed lamb lollipops in fenugreek cream are always worth trying. Vikram Vij is the ultimate host - genuine, warm, funny, with a touch of mischief about him.

Be prepared to wait though. No reservations means no reservations (I once watched Vij send away Harrison Ford who tried to nab a table - ha!). My advice is to put your name down, get an idea of when to return - and then head out for drinks or shopping nearby.

A must for anyone visiting Vancouver.